Crown Princess Mette-Marit Faces Lung Transplant Surgery

Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway is likely to undergo a lung transplant as her health continues to decline due to an incurable disease. The announcement came from the royal palace, revealing that the 52-year-old princess has been battling pulmonary fibrosis since her diagnosis in 2018. This condition involves the accumulation of scar tissue in the lungs, making it increasingly difficult for oxygen to enter the bloodstream.

Throughout the autumn, Mette-Marit underwent a series of tests at Rikshospitalet University Hospital in Oslo, which indicated a worsening of her condition. As a result, medical professionals are preparing for the possibility of lung transplant surgery. Dr. Martin Holm, Professor and Head of the Department of Respiratory Medicine, stated, “We are reaching the point where a lung transplant will be necessary, and we are undertaking the necessary preparations to ensure that this will be possible when the time comes.”

As of now, no specific timeline has been established for when Mette-Marit will be placed on the transplant waiting list. The Crown Princess has been committed to maintaining her royal duties as much as possible, despite her health challenges.

In September, it was announced that she would be temporarily stepping back from her official engagements in October to focus on a month of lung rehabilitation. Although she will miss most duties, there are exceptions, such as a dinner with members of parliament scheduled for October 23.

Mette-Marit’s year has been particularly difficult, marked by health struggles and family challenges. Notably, her son, Marius Borg Høiby, faces serious legal troubles, having been charged with 32 offenses, including four counts of rape, set to be heard in court starting February 3, 2026. Mette-Marit has expressed her desire to continue her royal responsibilities, despite these personal and health-related obstacles.

The Crown Princess first publicly addressed her health condition in 2018, noting that the disease affects her ability to perform official duties. She remarked, “For a number of years, I have had health challenges on a regular basis, and now we know more about what is involved.” This transparency reflects her commitment to her role while managing the realities of her illness.

Pulmonary fibrosis is a progressive disease that currently lacks a cure. Symptoms typically include shortness of breath, fatigue, and a persistent dry cough. Mette-Marit is following a targeted exercise and rehabilitation program to help manage her symptoms.

According to the NHS, the majority of pulmonary fibrosis cases affect individuals aged 70 to 75, making Mette-Marit’s diagnosis at a younger age somewhat unusual. The condition can worsen over time, but early detection has been beneficial for her prognosis.

Despite the challenges ahead, Mette-Marit remains optimistic. “Even if such a diagnosis will limit my life at times,” she stated, “I am glad that the disease has been discovered so early. My goal is still to work and participate in the official programme as much as possible.” This determination underscores her resilience in the face of adversity as she navigates the complexities of her health and royal duties.